What Documents You Need to Get a Real ID

The documents you need depend on which state you're in and what you're using as proof of identity

Every state's DMV requires the same basic categories of documents — proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of legal name change if applicable — but the specific documents they accept vary. For example, one state may accept a utility bill for residency while another requires a lease or mortgage statement. Before you gather anything, check your state's DMV website or call their Real ID line to confirm which documents they'll take, because showing up with the wrong paperwork means a wasted trip.

The documents listed here are the most commonly accepted across states, but your state may have different rules or additional requirements. Some states also charge different fees depending on which documents you bring, so confirming ahead saves money and time.

Key Takeaways

You need documents in four categories: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of where you live, and proof of any legal name changes.
Each state's DMV accepts different specific documents within those categories, so you must check your state's requirements before you go.
Original documents or certified copies are usually required — photocopies and digital photos typically do not work.
If you were born outside the United States, you will need your passport, birth certificate with a raised seal, or a Certificate of Naturalization in addition to the standard documents.
Bring more documents than you think you need, because the DMV may reject one and you can swap it for another without leaving.

Proof of identity documents

This is the document that shows who you are. Most states accept a current or expired passport, a passport card, or a military ID. Some states also accept an enhanced driver's license from another state, a tribal ID card, or a permanent resident card (green card). A few states will take an expired Real ID driver's license or state ID card from another state.

If you do not have any of these, some states will accept a combination of documents instead — typically a birth certificate with a raised seal plus a Social Security card, or a birth certificate plus a school ID or employee ID. Check your state's list before you assume a single document will work, because the rules for what counts as "proof of identity" vary significantly.

Proof of Social Security number

You need a document that shows your nine-digit Social Security number. The most straightforward option is your Social Security card itself. If you do not have it or it is damaged, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card usually arrives in two to three weeks.

If you cannot wait that long, some states accept a W-2 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a bank statement that shows your full Social Security number. A few states also accept a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number. Call your state DMV to ask which of these alternatives they will take, because not all states accept all of them.

Proof of residency

You need a document showing your current address. The most common options are a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. Most states require the document to be dated within the last 60 days, though some allow up to 90 days. A few states are stricter and require documents dated within the last 30 days.

If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your name yet, some states will accept a letter from your landlord on letterhead, a signed lease, or a recent mail from a government agency addressed to you at your new address. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, some states will accept it if you bring a signed statement from the person whose name is on the bill confirming you live there. Ask your DMV whether they accept this arrangement before you rely on it.

Proof of legal name change

If your current legal name is different from the name on your birth certificate — because of marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — you need to bring proof of that change. The document depends on what caused the change. If you married or divorced, bring your marriage certificate or divorce decree. If you changed your name by court order, bring the court order itself. If you are a transgender person who changed your name legally, bring the court order or the amended birth certificate, depending on what your state issued.

These documents must be originals or certified copies with a raised seal or official stamp. A photocopy or a digital image will not work. If you do not have the original, you can request a certified copy from the court that issued it or from the vital records office in the state or county where the event occurred.

Documents if you were born outside the United States

If you were not born in the United States, you need to prove your citizenship or legal residency status in addition to the standard four categories. Bring one of the following: a valid U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, a Permanent Resident Card (green card), or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

You also need an original birth certificate or a certified copy with a raised seal. If your birth certificate is in another language, some states require an official English translation. Check your state's DMV website to see whether they require a translation and, if so, what counts as "official." A few states accept translations from any certified translator, while others require translations from specific organizations.

What to bring in addition to required documents

Bring your current driver's license or state ID card if you have one, even if it is expired. Bring your Social Security card even if you also have a W-2 or pay stub, because having the original saves time if the DMV questions anything. Bring extra documents in each category if you have them — for example, both a utility bill and a lease for residency, or both a passport and a military ID for identity. If the DMV rejects one document, you can when ready offer another without making a second trip.

Bring the original documents or certified copies. Photocopies, faxes, and digital photos do not work. If a document is damaged, faded, or hard to read, bring it anyway along with a clearer version if you have one — the DMV staff can decide whether it is acceptable.

How to confirm your state's specific requirements

Visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID documents" or "Real ID requirements." Most state DMV websites have a checklist you can print or a list organized by document type. If the website is unclear, call your state's DMV customer service line — the number is on the website — and ask which documents they accept for each category. Some states also have a chat feature on their website where you can ask questions without calling.

If you are renewing your license or ID at the same time you are getting Real ID, ask whether the requirements are different. Some states require additional documents for a renewal than for a new card. A few states also have different rules depending on whether you are explore in person, by mail, or online, so confirm the method you plan to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents instead of bringing originals?

No. The DMV requires original documents or certified copies with a raised seal or official stamp. Digital photos, PDFs, and photocopies do not work. If you have a digital copy but not the original, contact the issuing agency to request a certified copy before your appointment.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

You can request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. The process usually takes one to four weeks depending on the state. If you were born outside the United States, contact the government agency in that country. Some states will accept other documents like a passport or naturalization certificate in place of a birth certificate.

Do I need to bring my original Social Security card or can I just write down the number?

You need to bring a document that shows your number — either the card itself or a W-2, tax return, pay stub, or bank statement. Writing down the number is not acceptable. If you lost your card, request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment.

What counts as proof of residency if I just moved and don't have a utility bill yet?

Some states accept a lease, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a letter from your landlord. A few accept a recent piece of mail from a government agency addressed to your new address. Call your state DMV to ask what they will take in your situation, because the rules vary.

Can I use my passport as both proof of identity and proof of citizenship?

Yes. If you were born outside the United States, a valid U.S. passport counts as proof of both identity and citizenship, so you do not need to bring a separate citizenship document. You still need to bring proof of Social Security number and proof of residency.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.